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Course Descriptions

Note: Descriptions of the new courses offered for the Christian Education and Counseling tracks will be added soon.

THM 501 Biblical Theology of Missions

A survey of the biblical themes of missio Dei and the kingdom of God, which are seen as the unifying concepts of the Bible and the primary vehicles for the biblical theology of missions. In addition to a consideration of the evangelistic mandate of the Church, attention is given to the biblical theology of missions and to evaluate their church’s contemporary involvement in missio Dei.

GEN 501 Research Methodology

A course designed to acquaint the graduate student with research methodology and key bibliographies in the areas of theological, biblical, and historical studies. The course guides the student in preparing a meaningful bibliography on a selected subject. Suggestions are included on how and where to collect and use non-book materials that have theological and historical importance.

BIB 501 Old Testament Genres and Issues

A study of the missio Dei motif of the Old Testament. The course highlights the diachronic treatment of key Old Testament theological issues and discusses practical applications of such concepts within today’s Church.

BIB 502 New Testament Genres and Issues

A study of the literary and rhetorical aspects of the New Testament and historical-critical issues related to understanding the theology of the New Testament. The various theological themes and motifs of the New Testament are investigated. Students attempt to develop a synthesis of the overall message of various New Testament authors. The course addresses the continuing relevance and significance of New Testament issues in the Church today.

HIS 601 Worldwide Expansion of Christianity

A survey of the expansion of Christianity from the first century to the present. Special attention is paid to the role of secular and church forces that have contributed to the different states of missionary effort of the Church. Students also study the history of missions within their own country, place that history with the context of global missions history, and discuss the role of secular world trends which affect the Church’s work of evangelization in their country.

THM 601 Beyond the Local Church

An analysis of the mission of the Church from a biblical perspective. A theology of mission is developed with a scope far beyond that often envisioned in the historical

MIS 601 Socio-political Context of the Church

A study of the Church in the world, with the goal of equipping students to be more effective ministers and missionaries of the gospel within a variety of social, political, and economic environments. Students consider the history of the Church’s involvement in social transformation from apostolic times until the present, the biblical basis of evangelism and social responsibility, and modern evangelical efforts to redefine the relationship between evangelism and social responsibility. Students also address the issue of liberation theology and study the biblical perspective on mission-state and church-state relationships and civil disobedience.

REL 602 Contemporary African Theology

A survey of the nature of the kingdom of God in Africa over the centuries, with emphasis on how the African church has interpreted the kingdom of God. Students consider selected theological themes of several major independent church movements in Africa. The course gives special attention to apparent methods of biblical contextualization in attempts to achieve relevancy to the culture and examines the danger of syncretism.

GEN 602 Cultural Patterns of Communication

An advanced course on the communication of the Christian faith to people of diverse national, cultural, and ethnic backgrounds. The aim is to prepare students to understand current communication theories, both verbal and non-verbal, and how they must be internalized into each communicator’s own worldview with the goal of effective cross-cultural witness. Variations in basic values are seen as factors in interpersonal relations and effective gospel outreach. Cultural encapsulation, ethnocentrism, and non-verbal assumptions are other elements considered.

BIB 602 Lucan Pneumatology

An exposition of the pneumatology of the Lucan literature. Students evaluate the biblical data historically, grammatically, and contextually; analyze the structure of Luke and Acts; and determine the relevance of understanding Luke’s strategy when reporting about the activity of the Holy Spirit. The study traces the development of the prophethood of all believers, examining its origin on the Day of Pentecost, its community expression, and the six examples of prophets about whom Luke reports. Finally, students do a critical evaluation of some contemporary approaches to the hermeneutics of Luke and Acts as historical narrative.

LDS 501 Foundations of Christian Leadership

A study of the fundamental principles and practices of effective spiritual leadership. The course examines theological foundations that impinge upon pastoral management, emphasizes primary traits required for effective pastoral service, explains foundational skills specific to pastoral ministry, and enhances the student’s ability to work with people in fulfilling the mission of the Church.

CED 606 Christian Education Today: Foundations and Practice

A study of the biblical, theological, philosophical, historical, sociological, and psychological bases of Christian education. The course considers the dynamic forces underlying the teaching-learning process; provides help in understanding people in various age groups and how to teach and minister to them; considers appropriate strategies for the church and its educational ministries; and provides a perspective on concerns for a biblical basis of the family and parenting, schools, and parachurch organizations. This course supports AGGST’s purpose of helping students grow in their personal commitment to carry out the goals and objectives of a biblical missions statement based on the Great Commission.

GEN 601 Writing for the 21st Century

An analysis of the characteristics of a successful Christian writer and a survey of the types of literature that should be published today. The course provides opportunity and guidance for producing several writing projects, and outlines possibilities and procedures for launching into publishing in Africa today.

MIS 602 Specialized Studies in Islam

An overview of the historical beginnings and development of Islam and of its system, creed, and practice. The course gives special attention to Christian witness to Muslims and the planting of the Church among them.